Vermont.gov

WATERBURY, VT— Vermont Emergency Management and the National Weather Service of Burlington remind Vermonters it is not too early to prepare for winter. Winter Weather Awareness Week is taking place October 25-31 to stress the importance of planning before a storm hits.

Each year, people are killed by exposure to the cold, snow and ice related traffic accidents, heart attacks while shoveling snow, and asphyxiation or fire caused by improper use of heaters or generators during power outages. These elements can make winter a dangerous season.

“Most Vermonters know the challenges presented by the winter season,” Vermont Emergency Management Director Barbara Farr said. “That’s why it’s so important to be plan ahead of time and be ready for the worst. There are many things you can do to protect yourself, and some are as easy as throwing a blanket in your car.”

Some easy steps you can take to prepare for winter weather include:

• Stocking up on flashlights and batteries in your home and car

• Purchasing a battery-powered radio or NOAA weather radio to listen for advisories

• Keeping your gas tank and your home heating tank full of fuel

• Purchasing extra non-perishable food for your home and your car

• Keeping a first-aid kit in your home and car

• Maintaining a significant supply of bottled water in your home

• Those who have elderly neighbors or live next to those with special needs should arrange to check on those neighbors during a storm or power outage

For more winter safety tips visit the National Weather Service web site at www.nws.noaa.gov/om/winter/index.shtml. Despite the season, Vermont Emergency Management and the National Weather Service urge everyone to develop a family disaster plan and be prepared for any disaster.

Vermont Emergency Management produces an Emergency Preparedness Workbook to provide guidance on preparing for most emergencies. To download a copy, or request one by e-mail, go to the Vermont Emergency Management web site at www.vemvt.com, or call Vermont Emergency Management at 800-347-0488.

Source: Vermont Emergency Management
Last Updated at: October 26, 2009 16:03:23

News Releases

Winter Weather Awareness Week Stresses Preparedness